Fresh Start Checking Accounts

Fresh Start Checking Accounts are more commonly known as Second Chance Checking Accounts. These are checking accounts specially designed for individuals who have been reported to ChexSystems and are struggling to open a new account.

Although qualifying for a Fresh Start Checking Account is a lot easier than a regular checking account, there are a few things you should know before applying for one.

Most, if not all, charge a monthly service fee.

There may be certain limitations to your account, such as withdrawal limits and deposit holds.

You may still be turned down if your ChexSystems report shows fraud or account abuse.

How can you find a bank that offers a Fresh Start Checking Account?

Most of the big national banks do not offer Fresh Start Checking Accounts. US Bank and Wells Fargo have been known to offer Second Chance Checking Accounts, although they don’t publicize it. If you don’t have one of these banks in your area, check out a local bank or credit union. The smaller banks and credit unions usually tend to be a bit more lenient when it comes to approving people for new accounts.

Another easy way to find a bank that offers Fresh Start Checking is to simply do a search on Google, including your city and state. So, for example, something like this: “Second Chance Checking, Los Angeles CA.”

These options should give you a good place to start. If you happen to find one and you are successful, please come back and let us know about your experience. Your feedback will help others who are struggling with ChexSystems.

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